Former government minister Michael Gove is set to take on a new role as the editor of The Spectator, following the magazine’s acquisition by hedge fund tycoon and GB News-backer Sir Paul Marshall. The announcement was made by Freddie Sayers, the magazine’s publisher, who stated that Mr. Gove is “perfectly suited to the role.”
Mr. Gove, who previously served as a Conservative MP before stepping down from Parliament, has a background in journalism, making him a fitting choice for the position. He will officially assume the role at the beginning of October, pending final approval from Acoba, the advisory committee on business appointments for former ministers.
The appointment of Mr. Gove comes as a replacement for Fraser Nelson, who is stepping down after 15 successful years as editor. Mr. Nelson will continue to contribute to The Spectator as an associate editor.
In a statement, Mr. Nelson expressed his confidence in Mr. Gove as his successor, describing him as a “first-class journalist” who briefly ventured into politics. He emphasized that the timing was right for him to pass on the editorial reins, especially with the magazine under new ownership and ambitious plans for the future.
The Spectator has seen significant growth under Mr. Nelson’s leadership, particularly in its digital offerings. His departure follows the recent exit of Andrew Neil as the magazine’s chairman.
The sale of The Spectator to Sir Paul Marshall’s Old Queen Street (OQS) media group for £100m marks a new chapter for the publication, which has a long history dating back to 1828. The acquisition came after a failed bid by an Abu Dhabi-backed consortium earlier this year, prompting government intervention and subsequent legislation banning foreign states from owning UK newspapers.
As Mr. Gove takes the helm at The Spectator, he will be supported by non-executive Chairman Charles Moore, a former editor of the magazine. Mr. Sayers highlighted Lord Moore’s role in safeguarding editorial independence and preserving the publication’s essence.
With the Conservative party gearing up to elect its next leader, Mr. Gove’s appointment as editor of the right-leaning magazine adds an interesting dimension to the political landscape. As he transitions from politics back to journalism, all eyes will be on how he steers The Spectator in this new era.
